Optical X-ray 'stopwatch' accurately measures 170-attosecond pulses of ångström wavelength

Ångström-wavelength X-ray pulses of 170 attoseconds have been measured accurately. The same optical system can time electron motion inside atoms and molecules.

Nature reports that the duration of ångström-wavelength X-ray pulses lasting 170 attoseconds has been measured accurately. nature.com The measurement was made with an optical system designed for precision pulse duration metrology.

The same system can serve as a "stopwatch" for the rapid motion of electrons inside atoms and molecules. Short pulses generated by the system could be used to observe electrons moving around atomic nuclei.